Phetchaburi:The National Water Resources Management Agency is closely monitoring the Phetchaburi River basin following dam overflows and the potential for heavy rainfall. Efforts are underway in Bangkok to accelerate the pumping of water from major canals to mitigate potential flooding.
According to Thai News Agency, the National Water Resources Management Committee is preparing for the release of water at a maximum rate of 500 cubic meters per second to manage the situation. Coordination with the local governor has led to the implementation of contingency plans. Meanwhile, water levels in the Chao Phraya River basin are decreasing, with release rates maintained at 2,500 cubic meters per second, despite the Pa Sak Chonlasit Dam operating at 111% capacity. Authorities are confident that Bangkok and its surrounding areas have sufficient capacity to handle increased water levels.
The Joint Flood Situation Update Center reported that the Kaeng Krachan Dam in the Phetchaburi River basin is now at 102% capacity, with water overflowing the spillway at a rate of 120 cubic meters per second. The Meteorological Department has warned of possible heavy rainfall exceeding 100 millimeters per second in Phetchaburi province. Emergency plans are being coordinated with local authorities to manage potential heavy rainfall upstream of the dam.
While the Chao Phraya River basin's water levels are decreasing by 200-300 cubic meters per day, discharges downstream remain steady to lower upstream levels. The Bhumibol and Sirikit dams have a combined capacity to hold over 6 billion cubic meters of water, reducing the need for immediate large-scale releases. The Pa Sak Chonlasit Dam's 111% capacity is considered temporary, managed similarly to 2022's flood detention measures.
In the eastern region, water levels are declining but may rise in lower areas such as Ongkharak District in Nakhon Nayok Province and Ban Sang District in Prachinburi Province. The overflowing Si Yat Canal affects several districts in Chachoengsao province.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration is taking proactive measures by opening floodgates and pumping water from main canals to aid surrounding areas. Although upstream water and tidal surges have not yet impacted the region, vigilance is necessary due to anticipated rainfall. Relief payment registration channels have been established for affected communities.
Efforts are underway to open sluice gates in Pathum Thani Province to assist specific subdistricts. Rapid drainage operations are also being conducted in Khlong Saen Saep and Khlong Prawet Buri to protect surrounding areas, including King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang. Water pumps are being installed for local communities to manage potential flooding. While upstream water levels are stable, monitoring of local rainfall continues.